Apple Maps Connect lets small businesses add their own info

Apple has added the ability for small business owners to add information on their companies to Apple Maps.

It’s been two years since Apple Maps launched, and while it’s no longer the calamitous mess it was at the beginning, it still lags behind Google Maps in a number of key areas.

Apple seems keen to rectify that, at least in part, with a new initiative called Maps Connect.

This new web portal enables small business owners to add information on their own businesses, which should flesh out the Apple Maps data set considerably.

Such users can add their business location, or modify it if Apple’s listing is incorrect, as well as their phone number. They can also add their web address as well as their Facebook, Twitter, and Yelp pages.

It’s even possible to sign up to have Apple’s iBeacon indoor tracking system installed. However, Apple seems to be prioritising larger businesses that receive a million or more customers each year, so there may be a bit of a wait for boutique shops.

Maps Connect is only available to businesses in the US at present, but if this bold new crowdsourcing venture goes well, you can probably expect the UK and Europe to get a taste before too long.Read More: Apple Maps vs Samsung Gear S